FSU football: Why Transfer Portal evaluations important for Noles

Culture

FSU coaches evaluating transfer portal players is difficult, but it does help if there’s a prior relationship from when the player was in high school. There are more unknowns and less time to form a relationship in general if that’s not the case.

We saw Jimbo Fisher have success with transfers like cornerback Mike Harris in 2010. He also brought in players like Tank Carradine and Melanik Watson. All three of them had success at FSU and were drafted by NFL teams.

Some questions need answers when it comes to players transferring, and none of them is more important than, are they the right fit for the program?

Another question would be, why are they looking to transfer? Is the player looking to go somewhere for the right reasons? Are they a “me first” type of player?

FSU football has had enough players in the program of late that care more about their stats than team success. There’s nothing wrong with players transferring for a bigger stage to show their ability.

However, FSU can ill-afford to not do their due diligence when it comes to setting their expectations, along with expectations from the player. Will they be coachable? Is the player willing to put in the work required? Will they be willing to hold their teammates accountable?

All of those questions need answers quickly, and all of the players are not going to meet those requirements. Coaches will touch-base with the players that meet roster needs, but that evaluation will be critical in the player joining the team and helping the overall program achieve success.